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"So," you start, "what else do you do in your spare time, my lord? Besides music?" You are playing the long game. It's vital to build trust before revealing your reason for coming, and you've heard that the best way to build someone's trust is to make them talk about themselves if all else fails.
He looks at you in silence for a moment before speaking his answer with cold certainty. "I dabble in a bit of everything. Reading and writing poetry. Chess and cards. Magic, philosophy, religion, art, history—everything but politics and war. Those subjects always seem to bring out the worst in people." He winks, as though that last part of his statement was some kind of joke.
Your laughter dies in your throat. There is something about his demeanour that triggers a feeling of fear in you, the way he comes off friendly, yet so detached and removed from humanity. You bring the wine to your mouth, but take only a small sip.
After a moment, he continues, as if sensing your tension and trying to break it. "But," he says, "truth be told, I am more interested in the nature of your visit than any of those topics. For how rare outside adventurers in my land are, it's even rarer still to encounter one who is willing to visit my castle and speak with me before I invite them. Please, tell me why you're really here. Is there some matter you wish to discuss with me? Something important and personal, perhaps?"
"Yes," you say. "But first, customs. This wine is delicious. If you don't mind, I must speak a small prayer of appreciation before we continue."
(cont.)
